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High-End Souvenirs From Nepal

The Keepsake to Cherish Travel Memories

by Rajiv Joshi
written by Rajiv Joshi
The Gurkha Knife

Nepal enthralls visitors with high Himalayan peaks, natural attractions, ever-smiling dwellers, timeless culture and tradition, rich wildlife, and thrilling adventure options. But Nepal’s attraction is not limited to these. The country’s gifted artisans produce innumerable high-end handcrafted souvenirs that travelers can take back to remember this enchanting country. Souvenirs are the keepsake to cherish travel memories for the rest of their life.

Whether it is soft cashmere products, artistic Thangka paintings, gold-plated sculptors, gold and silver utensils, or handmade rugs, one can take these souvenirs to gift to friends and families back home.

These are some high-end souvenirs that can be taken from Nepal

Cashmere

Cashmere, or pashmina, is a high-value cashmere clothing produced in Nepal. It is a silk-like fabric made from the soft hair of mountain goats popularly known as cashmere goats. The prices of cashmere products depends on the quality of the fabric used and the design of the products. Cashmere fabric has been produced in Nepal for thousands of years. The fiber is also known as pashmina, derived from the Persian word Pashm.

Woolen shawls have appeared in books found between the 3rd century BC and the 11th century AD. The cashmere collection is known to offer a wide range of classic and contemporary clothing and accessories for everyone. Capra Hircus, also known as Chyangra in Nepal, is the major source of Cashmere. The soft hair comes from the underbelly of these mountain goats which reside in the Himalayan Belt and Inner Mongolian region above 12,000 ft. Farmed and combed annually, a single goat is known to give nearly 70 to 90 grams of hair in a year. The hair is then separated according to its density. Cashmere shawls are woven from the finer and shorter hair, whereas longer hair is used to make Cashmere sweaters in order to provide more strength and to retain a proper shape for a longer period of time. Known for its smoothness, softness, and warmth, cashmere has been considered one of the world’s most luxurious natural fabrics. It is considered to be eight times warmer than the normal wool and a hallmark of sheer elegance and style.

Cashmere products have always remained the first choice for quality-conscious people and have been admired for centuries by royal families globally.

Gold-plated Sculptures

Gold-plated sculptures are one of the most famous souvenirs to take back from Nepal. One can find variety of idols of different gods and goddesses and mythological characters, or even different temples made by skilled artisans. Most of these idols revolve around the Hindu and Buddhist religions, and the most popular are the ones of Buddha and Tara.

These idols and other sculptures are used for religious purposes during puja, worshipping, or also for decorations. Some highly expensive sculptures are intricately designed and plated by gold and even adorned with rare and expensive jewels.

Price of these products depends on the amount of time it takes to make the structure, and the components used. What makes these products special is that they are handcrafted and require a great degree of dedication, hard work, and the attention of multiple people. The sculptures here also have Feng Shui properties attached to them. Most of them are believed to bring a certain type of blessing when placed in a certain direction.

Gold and Silver Dining Sets

The gold and silver cutlery sets made in Nepal are of high quality. For very long, the use of silver and gold dinner sets has been linked with affluent people, and it is said that the mighty Kings dined in silver and gold cutleries. The silver cutlery sets have also been linked with certain health benefits as they are bacteria free and non-toxic, retain freshness of food as well as boost immunity.

Many jewelry shops in Nepal sell beautiful gold and silver dinner sets. They can be simple or intricately designed. These handcrafted cutleries are a very luxurious and worthy souvenir to take back home.

Similarly, Nepal also has galore of beautifully designed handmade jewelry that can be custom-made as well. These jewelries are also made from gold, silver and diamonds, and adorned with various other natural stones.

Handmade Rugs

Luxurious Nepali handmade rugs are a perfect souvenir to take back to decorate your home wall and floors. These rugs are famous for their design and their feel. What makes it even more special is that many handmade rugs weaving facilities offer personalized rugs made according to your taste. The rugs can have modern or traditional design, or simply be plain. It can have cultural decorations as well. The rugs are made using a wide variety of materials like the Tibetan wool, Chinese silk, and Banana fiber to name a few. One can even combine two or more materials in a single rug if its a matter of interest.

Thangka

Thangka, also known as Pauwa, is Buddhist paintings on cotton or silk appliqué usually depicting a deity, scene, or a mandala. These paintings are usually hung or are framed. The price of these paintings can vary from Rs 20,000 to millions of rupees, depending on the time taken to paint them and the materials used.

Thangkas are usually coated with a silk cover at the front yet very delicate. Thangkas have been painted since the 12th century. Originally from Tibet, Thangkas then evolved to be a major export product of Nepal. Thangkas are especially made for commercial purpose, but can also be found in monasteries in Nepal.

The word ‘Thangka’ is believed to have derived from Tibetan word ‘thang yig’ which means written record. These paintings are visually and spiritually inspiring. Thangkas are available in different categories. For example, tson-tang thangkas are of common type, while go-tang thangkas are made of one material sewn over others. Similarly, nag-tang means gold line on a back background, block prints thangkas are paper or cloth rendering by woodblock printing, and thsim-tang thangka means embroidery. Thangkas with a gold background generally depict long-life deities and fully enlightened Buddhas. Likewise, red background thangkas refer to the gold line on the vermilion.

Thangka artists describe their job as meditation as it needs full dedication to work, starting from the background sketches to the final touches.

Thangkas are a popular souvenir for tourists who use this painting for meditation as well as decoration.

REFERENCE

  • Featured photo: The khukuris on display in the local streets in Patan Durbar Square. by Swarnima Shrestha

 

Cashmere products of NepalGold and Silver Dining Sets of NepalGold and Silver Souvenirs of Nepalgold ornaments of nepalGold-plated Sculptures of NepalHandmade Nepali carpetNatural stone jewelryNepali carpetsilver ornaments of nepal
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Eva Dunham -

hey, can you also list low-priced gift ideas from Nepal?

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Asiatic Elephants (Elephas maximus) at Chitwan Nat Asiatic Elephants (Elephas maximus) at Chitwan National Park.

1) Asiatic Elephants with mahout carrying grass for fodder by Rapti River.
2) Asiatic Elephants with mahout were set on a mission to find a runaway elephant on a cold December morning.
3) A female Asiatic Elephant.

Elephants at national parks are kept at tourism venues to offer entertainment such as rides, shows, elephant bathing, feeding, selfies, and observation. Elephant tourism has become a major financial windfall for businessmen at the Chitwan National Park in Saurah. Visitors to the area often mention their desire to ‘see elephants’ both in wild and captive settings. Tourism vendors must keep up the appearance of happy animals in a peaceful environment to maintain a steady flow of income.
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#askmeaboutnepal #raptiriver #elephant #asiaticelephant #sauraha #chitwan #chitwandiaries #nationalpark #chitwannationalpark #Nepal #travelnepal #naturallynepal #photoofnepal  #yourshotphotography #landscapephotography #sancturyasia  #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal
Hues of Chitwan National Park. Located at the bas Hues of Chitwan National Park.

Located at the base of the Himalayas, Chitwan is home to one of the remaining populations of one-horn rhinoceroses and one of the Bengal Tiger’s last refuges. It also contains a wide variety of plants and animals.

The Chitwan National Park in the Southern Central Terai of Nepal is the first national park of Nepal and was created in 1973.  Formerly famous as “The Royal Chitwan National Park”, it extends over the foothills covering an area of 952.6 sq km (367.9 sq mi) over four districts: Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Parsa, and Makwanpur. This Park is home to more than 50 mammal species, over 525 birds, and 55 amphibians and reptiles. The endangered fauna found in the park are the One-horned rhinoceros, Gaur, Royal Bengal tiger, Wild elephant, Four-horned antelope, Pangolin, Golden monitor lizard, Python, etc.

Conservation of Chitwan National Park has been in place since the early 1800s. The National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act of 1973 recognized it as a national park and gave it legal protection. The Nepalese Army has been stationed there to guard the parks since 1975. Additionally, the 1974 Chitwan National Park Regulation and the 1996 Buffer Zone Management Regulation sufficiently secure the preservation of natural resources, public involvement in conservation efforts, and socioeconomic advantages for those residing in the buffer zone. As a result, Chitwan National Park stands out as a prime example of how the government and community can work together to conserve biodiversity.
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 #askmeaboutnepal #raptiriver #sauraha #chitwan #chitwandiaries #nationalpark #chitwannationalpark #Nepal #travelnepal #naturallynepal #photoofnepal  #yourshotphotography #landscapephotography #sancturyasia  #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal
Mist rises above River Rapti in the winter morning Mist rises above River Rapti in the winter mornings at Chitwan National Park. 

Rapti in the east is a diminutive river that drains the Chitwan Valley and serves as the northern boundary of the Chitwan National Park, it converges with the Narayani River. The river traverses the Mahabharat Range and is fed by various tributaries viz Samari, Karra, Kukhreni, Reu, Panchand from the left, and Lothther and Manahari from the right.

The western one spans both Nepal and India and originates in the Mid-Western Region, it flows through the Awadh and Purwanchal regions of the Uttar Pradesh state in India. Ultimately, it merges with the Ghaghara, a significant left-bank tributary of the Ganges, known as Karnali in Nepal. The tributaries of the West Rapti are Lungri Khola, Jhimruk Khola, Ami River, and Rohini River, while Arun Khola contributes from the right.

This river holds historical significance, particularly for the Janajati ethnic groups of Nepal and is called the "Airavati River" and serves as a tributary to the Sarayu, one of the sacred rivers in the Buddhist midland.
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Various aspects and elements of glorious Hiranya V Various aspects and elements of glorious Hiranya Varna Mahabihar, the Golden Temple of Patan.
Photo by @prriittii 

Hiranya Varna Mahabihara, also known as the Golden Temple, is a prominent Buddhist monastery located in Patan, Nepal. It is a significant religious and historical site with a rich history, captivating tales, and remarkable architecture.

Around the 12th century, during the rise of the Kirant invasion in the southern territories, the Shakyas of Kapilvastu were forced to leave their ancestral lands and seek refuge in the sacred Nepa Valley (now Kathmandu Valley). Among these migrants was Ananda Bhante, the principal disciple of Lord Gautam Buddha himself. Ananda Bhante specifically chose to settle on the banks of the divine pond that housed the Swayambhu Ratna Chaitya. This marked the beginning of human settlement in the area.

Subsequently, the residents dug a well to divert all the water from the pond, creating space for a proper Buddhist Bihar for the stupa. This gave rise to the establishment of the Kwa Baha / Hiranyavarna Maha Bihar. The water reservoir is believed to still exist beneath the central stupa chamber to this day.

Read More by @pratiigyaa
https://askmeaboutnepal.com/hiranya-varna-maha-bihar/
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#askmeaboutnepal #Hiranyamahabihar #monkey #brassarchitecture #brassdecor  #newararchitecture #goldentemple #templeachitecture #templearchitectureofnepal #buddhisttemple #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal
A brass monkey holding out jack fruits as the offe A brass monkey holding out jack fruits as the offering at Hiranya Varna Mahabihar courtyard, it is the latest addition to the temple and dates back to 1918 AD.
Photo by @prriittii 

Hiranya Varna Mahabihara, also known as the Golden Temple, is a prominent Buddhist monastery located in Patan, Nepal. It is a significant religious and historical site with a rich history, captivating tales, and remarkable architecture.

Around the 12th century, during the rise of the Kirant invasion in the southern territories, the Shakyas of Kapilvastu were forced to leave their ancestral lands and seek refuge in the sacred Nepa Valley (now Kathmandu Valley). Among these migrants was Ananda Bhante, the principal disciple of Lord Gautam Buddha himself. Ananda Bhante specifically chose to settle on the banks of the divine pond that housed the Swayambhu Ratna Chaitya. This marked the beginning of human settlement in the area.

Subsequently, the residents dug a well to divert all the water from the pond, creating space for a proper Buddhist Bihar for the stupa. This gave rise to the establishment of the Kwa Baha / Hiranyavarna Maha Bihar. The water reservoir is believed to still exist beneath the central stupa chamber to this day.

Read More by@pratiigyaa 
https://askmeaboutnepal.com/hiranya-varna-maha-bihar/
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#askmeaboutnepal #Hiranyamahabihar #monkey #brassarchitecture #brassdecor  #newararchitecture #goldentemple #templeachitecture #templearchitectureofnepal #buddhisttemple #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal
Mithila girls pose with their smartphone, Mahottar Mithila girls pose with their smartphone, Mahottari District.

Posting these photos in the wake of the ban on TikTok, one of the most popular social apps in Nepal.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in smartphone penetration even in remote and rural areas around the world, driven by factors such as decreasing smartphone costs, improved network infrastructure, and increased awareness of digital technologies. The situation in Nepal may have seen similar trends. 

The social media craze in Nepal is lavish and reflects the evolving digital landscape. While social media platforms provide spaces for creativity and connection, potential bans, as in the case of TikTok, would have far-reaching effects on users and the digital culture of the country. Any such decision would need to balance concerns related to content and privacy with the broader impact on individuals and communities.

The ban has raised questions about freedom of expression, the regular users feel that the ban infringes on their ability to express themselves and share their creativity. On the other hand, the absence of #TikTok (like in India) has led to changes in the social media landscape in Nepal too with users exploring or migrating to other platforms like #instagram and #instagramreels for similar features.

Composed by chatGPT
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#askmeaboutnepal #youth #nepaliyouth #mithilayouth #mithilagirls #girlswithphoneskills #ruralgirls #portrait #portraitmood  #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography #photoscapeofthemonth #lightroom #canon90d #canonphotography #thingstoseeinnepal
Classic view of Sagarmatha, Mount Everest (8849M.) Classic view of Sagarmatha, Mount Everest (8849M.) rising above the ridge connecting Nuptse and Lhotse. The tallest Mountain in the world falls in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas. Nepal.

On May 29, 1953, mountaineers Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary set foot atop Mount Everest, the world’s highest Mountain. They were the first ever to reach its 8,849-meter peak. Their ascent is considered an outstanding achievement of the 20th century and today marks the 70 years of Mt. Everest.

Since then there have been over 4,000 successful climbers on Mount Everest. 
To name a few:
1) Pasang Lhamu Sherpa,  the first woman to climb Everest (22 April 1993)
2) Kami Rita Sherpa climb it for the 28th time (23 May 2023)
3) Hari Budha Magar, a former British Gorkha soldier with double above-knee amputee claimed Everest (19 May 2023)

And the list goes on.

Initially known only to British mapmakers as Peak XV, the mountain was identified as the world's highest point in the 1850s and renamed in 1865 after Sir George Everest, a former Surveyor General of India. 

It is called Sagarmatha in Nepali, meaning "peak of the sky" and
Chomolungma or Qomolangma in Sherpa and Tibetan — "goddess mother of the world"
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#askmeaboutnepal #70yearsofeverest #everest #sagarmatha #chomolungma #qumolungma #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #AsianPhotographyMagazine #AsianPhotography ##photoscapeofthemonth #canon90d #canonphotography
The Vatsala Durga (also known as the Vatsala Devi) The Vatsala Durga (also known as the Vatsala Devi) located on the east side of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a sikhara-style monument dedicated to the Vatsala manifestation of the female deity Durga. 

The temple is constructed on a multi-tiered plinth with a staircase flanked by stone images of various animals—a motif common in Bhaktapur.  The temple's body comprises a ground-floor sanctum girdled by an ambulatory with three bays on each side. Above this rises the tall, tapering shaft of the Sikhara tower, constructed with rendented corners. The shaft's ground plan is in the shape of a 20-corner mandala. Surrounding the shaft are four octagonal corner towers and four rectangular porches at the cardinal directions. Inside the porches are depictions of Durga manifested as the Mahisasuramardini, the slayer of the buffalo-demon. More images of Durga in various Tantric expressions, numbering 32 in all (of which 27 survived before the 2015 earthquake), are inset within the corner octagonal pavilions' bays.

Further up the tower are statues of Bhairava at the corners, standing upon a throne of lotus leaves. Higher still are the forequarters of leaping lions (sardula), their paws extended forward into thin air--ready to pounce on any evil force threatening Durga's sanctuary. Directly above them on each face of the tower are small windows that serve no purpose but help ventilate the otherwise lightless and inaccessible interior of the sikhara, which was left empty to reduce its mass. Near the top of the tower, above the cornice, are stone images of the Eight Mother Goddesses. The top of the tower is a series of circular rings studded with multiple amalaka fruit bands, ending in a finial in the shape of a kalasa pot extruding a flame or jewel.

Text from Asian Historical Architecture.
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The Golden Gate, leading to the Taleju Temple in B The Golden Gate, leading to the Taleju Temple in Bhaktapur, Nepal, is a mesmerizing architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the ancient city. 

Built-in 1754 by King Ranjit Malla, this intricately carved and gilded entrance is a prominent feature of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square and also marks the last creative contribution by the Malla Kings to Bhaktapur.

Crafted in the traditional Pagoda style, the Golden Gate serves as the main entrance to the Taleju Temple courtyard. Its name, "Golden Gate," is derived from the lavish gilding that adorns the entire structure. The door is called "Swarnadwar" in Nepali and also the Paladhvaka (gate of gatekeeper) and Nepaladhvaka (gate of Nepal) two other names for it.

The gate is a remarkable example of Newar craftsmanship. At the center of the Torana, the statue of the Hindu goddess Taleju is enshrined, symbolizing the protective deity of the Malla kings. The goddess is revered with great devotion, and the Golden Gate serves as a focal point for religious ceremonies and cultural celebrations.

Read more: https://askmeaboutnepal.com/torana/
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Earthquake monument at Bhugol Park, Newroad, Kathm Earthquake monument at Bhugol Park, Newroad, Kathmandu. It was established in the memories of people who lost their lives in the 1934 (1990 BS) earthquake in Nepal.

On the fateful day of January 15, 1934, Nepal experienced a seismic catastrophe that left an indelible mark on its history—the mega-earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 8.0, jolted the very foundations of the Himalayan nation. The epicenter of the quake was situated in the eastern region of the country, Okhaldhunga about 9.5 km south of Mount Everest and 120 kms east of Kathmandu, and its impact reverberated across vast stretches of Nepal and northern India. 

The tremors unleashed widespread destruction, toppling buildings, crumbling infrastructure, and claiming thousands of lives, nearly 17000. The mass cremation was carried out in Sankhumul, according to Himalayan Shumsher.

The three major towns of the Kathmandu Valley; Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, were severely affected and almost all the buildings collapsed. Large cracks appeared in the ground and several roads were damaged in Kathmandu; however, the temple of Pashupatinath, the guardian deity of Nepal, escaped any damage. 

Immediately after the disaster, Prime Minister Juddha Shumsher announced relief measures, including helping families in reconstruction, repair, and maintenance. The relief office was responsible for drawing up an estimate of the building materials required for reconstruction. Architects and planners soon went to work making detailed measurements and drawings.  On 23 February 1941, a column commemorating the Earthquake (15 January 1934)disaster was erected at Bhugol Park which depicted Lord Shiva sitting atop a globe. 
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Majestic Sunset over the mighty Annapurna. #annap Majestic Sunset over the mighty Annapurna.

#annapurna
#askmeaboutnepal #moutainsofnepal #reels #reelsofnepal
Sama Chakeva clay sculptures by Mira Devi Dutta, B Sama Chakeva clay sculptures by Mira Devi Dutta, Bijay Kumar Dutta, and Priyanka Karna at Kathmandu Triennale (photo1-4). Taragaon Museum, Hyatt, Kathmandu.

A girl carrying a basket full of clay idols for the Sama Chakeva by Sulav Shrestha @sulav.photo 

Tharu girls of Terahaut village in Saptari immersing clay idols on the last day of the Sama Chakheva Festival. By  @sankuchy

Sama Chakeva, a revered festival deeply embedded in the folk traditions of Mithila, unfolds its enchanting rituals in Kartik (Nov/Dec) on the eve of the Chhat Festival. The festivities commence in harmony with the migratory journey of birds, descending from the Himalayas to the southern plains of Nepal. Rooted in the rich tapestry of Puranic lore, this celebration, adorned with folk theater and melodious songs, venerates the profound bond between brothers and sisters.

As the sun dips below the horizon, young, unmarried girls gather near the ghats of Chhath, bearing baskets adorned with idols of Sama and Chakeva, alongside oil lamps, kohl, and everyday clay-made essentials. In the ambient glow of the night, they immerse themselves in the timeless melodies of traditional songs, engaging in rituals that transcend generations. 

On this sacred occasion, the river becomes a sanctifying space as young girls take a symbolic dip, purifying their spirits. The idols of Sama and Chakeva, witnesses to the festival's entirety, are tenderly immersed in the flowing waters, marking the conclusion of this deeply cherished celebration.
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Sikhs of Nepalgunj take on streets performing vari Sikhs of Nepalgunj take on streets performing various dances and activities, an expression of their cultural heritage on the occasion of the Guru Nanak Jayanti. Nepalgunj

Photos by RGB NIHAL RGB Camerography 

In addition to the dance, other cultural activities such as kirtan (devotional singing), recitation of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of Sikhism), and langar (community meal) are also integral parts of the Guru Nanak Jayanti celebration in Nepalgunj. These activities not only strengthen the bonds within the Sikh community but also promote unity and understanding among people of different faiths in the region.

The celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti in Nepalgunj is a testament to the diversity and richness of Sikh culture, and the dance performances play a vital role in preserving and showcasing this cultural heritage. Through these vibrant and expressive dances, the Sikhs in Nepalgunj convey not only their devotion to Guru Nanak Dev Ji but also their commitment to fostering a sense of community, joy, and cultural pride.

Read more on: https://askmeaboutnepal.com/guru-nanak-jayanti/
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Sikhs of Nepalgunj dressed in vibrant and traditio Sikhs of Nepalgunj dressed in vibrant and traditional attire, come together to perform dances as a form of devotion and expression of their cultural heritage on the occasion of the Guru Nanak Jayanti.

Photos by RGB NIHAL RGB Camerography 

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is a sacred and joyous occasion celebrated by Sikhs around the world to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. The celebration is marked by various religious and cultural events, including prayers, processions, and cultural performances. In Nepalgunj, a city in Nepal with a significant Sikh population, the celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti is a vibrant and culturally rich affair.

The Sikh dance during Guru Nanak Jayanti is often characterized by energetic and rhythmic movements, reflecting the joy and reverence felt by the community. The dance is not just a physical expression but also a spiritual one, as it is performed with a deep sense of devotion and gratitude towards Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The beats of traditional Sikh music, including the sounds of the dhol (drum) and other traditional instruments, add to the festive atmosphere.

These dances often take place in gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and spill out into the streets during processions. The streets of Nepalgunj come alive with the colorful attire of the dancers, the sound of music, and the rhythmic movements that captivate onlookers. The dance is a way for the Sikh community to share their joy and celebrate the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji with the larger community.
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#askmeaboutnepal #gurunanak #SikhCommunity #sikhdance #nepalnow #learnabundantly #learnaboutnepal #aboutnepal #nepalnow #nepalifeed #happeningtoday #naturallynepal #sikhhistory
Shey Phoksundo Lake, at an elevation of 3,611 mete Shey Phoksundo Lake, at an elevation of 3,611 meters (11,849 feet), casts its spell in the remote reaches of the Dolpa district. Cradled by snow-capped peaks, it's a haven where tranquility dances on the ripples of crystal-clear waters. by @pratiigyaa 

The heart-shaped lake nestles within the Shey Phoksundo National Park. A pristine alpine lake renowned for its captivating beauty and tranquil aura located in the remote Dolpa region of Nepal is the deepest lake in the country, plunging to a depth of about 145 meters (475 feet). The lake's turquoise waters contrast with the rugged terrain, creating a visual symphony that beckons adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

The Dolpa region is home to the Dolpo people, who have preserved their unique culture and traditions for centuries. Trekkers have the opportunity to engage with these communities, visit ancient monasteries like Shey Gompa, and witness the nomadic lifestyle of the locals. Embarking on a trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake is not just a physical journey but a spiritual and cultural odyssey, where every step tells a story etched in the folds of the majestic Himalayas. 
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#askmeaboutnepal #SheyPhoksundoTrek #SheyPhoksundolake #SheyPhoksundo #phoksundo #AdventureAwaits #NepalExploration #dolpo #trekkininnepal #lakesofnepal #landscapephotography #phonephotography #ilovenature
Stone Statue of Buddha at Kumbheshwar Dhungedhara Stone Statue of Buddha at Kumbheshwar Dhungedhara (stone spout) in Lalitpur.

In Lumbini's sacred grove, after giving birth to Prince Siddhartha Gautam, Queen Maya Devi passed away. Following Siddhartha Gautam's attainment of enlightenment and his emergence as Lord Buddha, he intended to teach the path of righteousness for the welfare and happiness of the multitude. However, the opportunity to impart the teachings of dharma to Queen Maya Devi did not arise.

In this context, Buddha, on one occasion, went to the Tushita heaven and, by manifesting himself, bestowed the teachings of dharma upon Queen Maya Devi in the city of Sankasya. This event is depicted in this sculpture, where Buddha's statue is shown with a raised umbrella, symbolizing the presentation of those teachings.

This sculpture belongs to the early medieval period and is a unique representation not found elsewhere in Nepal. Therefore, it stands as an invaluable cultural heritage of Nepal, emphasizing the importance of its recognition and preservation.

Text and Photo by Dr. Jagaman Gurung,
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#askmeaboutnepal #stonestaue #buddhaquotes  #buddha  #stonework #oldstatues  #stoneage #lichhavi  #buddhisminnepal #buddhismquotes #buddhateachings  #stoneart #stonearchitecture #stoneartlover #sculpture #historyofnepal  #reportagephotography #photooftheday #picoftheday #naturallynepal #visitnepal #reportagespotlight #worldphotopress #learnoninstagram #learnaboutnepal  #photoscapeofthemonth #canonshooter
It is the auspicious occasion of Kartik Shukla Pak It is the auspicious occasion of Kartik Shukla Paksha Hari Bodhini Ekadashi, today, also known as Thulo Ekadashi. May the blessings of Lord Budhanilkantha Narayan make your days prosperous!

Photo by Pritam Thapa, Priti Thapa

Hari Bodhini Ekadashi is considered the most significant and prominent among the twenty-four Ekadashis observed throughout the year. It is referred to as Thulo Ekadashi due to its importance. In Hinduism, Ekadashi is observed as a day for worshiping Lord Vishnu. According to the legends, Lord Vishnu is said to have awakened from his cosmic slumber in the Ksheer Sagar (ocean of milk) on the day of Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi. Hence, this day is also known as Hari Bodhini Ekadashi.

It is believed that observing a fast and engaging in prayers on this day brings immense spiritual merit and blessings.
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#askmeaboutnepal #thuliekadashi #haribodhiniekadashi #ekadashitithi #culture #hinduculture #hindutradition #hinduismnepal #budhanilkantha #narayan #vishnu #stoneart #stoneartlover #stonearchitecture #learnaboutnepal #hindugod #hindudeity
The protestants mobilized by Durga Prasai and Mahe The protestants mobilized by Durga Prasai and Mahesh Basnet parade to participate in the massive demonstration scheduled today 7 Mangshir 2080 (November 23 2023)

Video @iamsoosaanshrestha
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